LAHORE: Khawaja Saad Rafique, a senior leader of the PML-N, expressed his dissatisfaction with the party’s focus on “power politics,” stating on Monday that democracy cannot operate “under remote control” or be sustained by billionaires.
“Flattery and false praise can undermine even the most capable political leader. Many have pursued power through the establishment’s support, which has become a favored pastime,” Rafique remarked, echoing sentiments similar to those of former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, who departed the Sharif-led PML-N over concerns about prioritizing power over accountability and democracy.
Other PML-N defectors, including Miftah Ismail, Mohammad Zubair, and Asif Karmani, have previously shared similar views.
Speaking at a ceremony commemorating the death anniversary of former Chief Minister Ghulam Haider Wynne, Rafique criticized the tendency of political parties to favor sycophants over genuine activists. “The leadership often views themselves and their families as the sole sources of wisdom,” he noted.
Rafique, who lost his National Assembly seat to PTI’s Latif Khosa in the February elections, has consistently highlighted the weaknesses within political parties, which he believes have contributed to the decline of democracy by creating space for non-political actors.
“I speak hard truths to the leadership. Whether they act on them is up to them, but they do listen. We cannot ignore political realities, just as no one can erase us,” he added, alluding to the PTI.
Addressing the issues in Balochistan, he remarked that the province has become “a simmering volcano” with no one willing to tackle its challenges. “An armed separatist movement exists in Balochistan, and in KP, forces that reject the constitution are gaining influence. Non-state actors, fueled by hunger and injustice, are becoming more powerful.”
He questioned why the PML-N and PTI are not focusing on Balochistan’s issues, asserting that they are merely alternating power rather than addressing critical problems. “The conflict between PTI, PML-N, and the establishment may seem significant, but the situation in Balochistan is far more pressing,” he insisted.
Rafique criticized the judiciary’s declining reputation, noting that even respected judges have become contentious figures. “A democracy run by billionaires and millionaires cannot function effectively or deliver real results,” he warned, adding that no political party adheres to its own manifesto.
‘Don’t Idolize Leaders’
A former student leader, Rafique urged the youth to avoid blind loyalty to political figures. “Respect your leaders, but don’t idolize them. All political parties that value the constitution and state integrity must unite for Pakistan’s sake.”
He accused the establishment of creating political parties, explaining, “When a few individuals err, the entire party suffers. The PTI is under pressure for similar reasons.”
Rafique also questioned why political parties neglect grassroots engagement, lamenting their failure to learn from past mistakes. “No one is willing to accept accountability. Everyone has made errors, but no one is ready to admit them,” he observed, reflecting on the cyclical nature of politics.
Looking back, he noted that while he was favored by Ghulam Haider Wynne, he never enjoyed the same standing with Nawaz Sharif.
